Program Highlight: Building College Dreams at Fordham Leadership Academy
Student Leadership Network’s College Access and Success Consulting Services offer individualized coaching and hands-on technical assistance to strengthen college counseling practices at partner schools. Through this consulting model, we have been able to bring our proven approach to college access and success to a growing number of schools and districts across the country.
Since the 2021–22 school year, Student Leadership Network has maintained a strong and productive partnership with Fordham Leadership Academy (FLA) in the Bronx, New York.
Emily Caraballo, Kimberly M. and Carolina Moquete at Fordham Leadership Academy
Twice a month, Carolina Moquete, Associate Director of College Access & Professional Learning at Student Leadership Network, conducts in-person counselor coaching sessions at the school, a consistent and dedicated presence that is meaningfully transforming how FLA approaches college readiness for its students.
These aren’t one-size-fits-all trainings, they’re collaborative working sessions where Carolina and Emily Caraballo, the Community Coordinator at FLA, roll up their sleeves together to tackle the real challenges of getting students college-ready.
During each visit, they review their progress: How many seniors have completed their college applications? Which college reps are visiting campus next week? Are there juniors who should apply to competitive programs like QuestBridge College Prep Scholars or are on track to qualify for Posse as Seniors? It’s strategic, it’s detailed, and it’s working.
Through sustained coaching efforts, Carolina and Emily have successfully accelerated the promotion of New York’s SUNY network, which creates strong financial and academic options for many of our students. For example, this year 75% of FLA students applied to a SUNY institution.
In addition, our partnership has been able to guide several FLA’s students in identifying prestigious scholarships and other resources associated with a variety of private institutions. One student, Kimberly M., exemplifies the profound impact of full engagement with the resources available through this partnership. Carolina coached Emily on what makes a compelling essay, using rubrics to guide her through the key elements. Emily then took what she learned and helped Kimberly prepare her college admission materials. Kimberly spent the summer diligently crafting her portfolio, with a singular goal in mind to apply Early Decision to Bard College for Fall 2026. In addition to being accepted, Kimberly was able to secure a full ride scholarship totaling more than $80,000 each year over four years.
Kimberly M., Senior at Fordham Leadership Academy
Her success is also a reflection of her consistent participation in our program’s workshop series at FLA. As a junior, Kimberly attended sessions that covered topics from “Writing the Personal Statement” to “College Fit & Match.” Then as a senior, she furthered her knowledge through workshops on “Financial Aid 101” and “Understanding Financial Aid Award Letters.” These opportunities provided Kimberly with a range of tools and insights to navigate the application process with confidence. She’s now on her path to success and we are so proud.
Kimberly’s story is one of many. Dozens of students have benefited from the dedicated guidance of Carolina and Emily, who have consistently provided comprehensive training, essential tools, and ongoing support, empowering each student to reach their fullest potential.
Bonus Read: Supporting students through the college scholarship application process is at the heart of what Student Leadership Network does and we are proud that Jatae Daly, our amazing CollegeBound Initiative Director, was featured in U.S. News & World Report earlier this month. Jatae shares how students navigate the scholarship process and, with the right support, transform opportunity into achievement.
